EP0532242B1 - Quick connect tubing connector - Google Patents
Quick connect tubing connector Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0532242B1 EP0532242B1 EP92308046A EP92308046A EP0532242B1 EP 0532242 B1 EP0532242 B1 EP 0532242B1 EP 92308046 A EP92308046 A EP 92308046A EP 92308046 A EP92308046 A EP 92308046A EP 0532242 B1 EP0532242 B1 EP 0532242B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- tube
- bore
- locking member
- sleeve
- radially
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L33/00—Arrangements for connecting hoses to rigid members; Rigid hose connectors, i.e. single members engaging both hoses
- F16L33/20—Undivided rings, sleeves or like members contracted on the hose or expanded in the hose by means of tools; Arrangements using such members
- F16L33/207—Undivided rings, sleeves or like members contracted on the hose or expanded in the hose by means of tools; Arrangements using such members only a sleeve being contracted on the hose
- F16L33/2071—Undivided rings, sleeves or like members contracted on the hose or expanded in the hose by means of tools; Arrangements using such members only a sleeve being contracted on the hose the sleeve being a separate connecting member
- F16L33/2073—Undivided rings, sleeves or like members contracted on the hose or expanded in the hose by means of tools; Arrangements using such members only a sleeve being contracted on the hose the sleeve being a separate connecting member directly connected to the rigid member
- F16L33/2076—Undivided rings, sleeves or like members contracted on the hose or expanded in the hose by means of tools; Arrangements using such members only a sleeve being contracted on the hose the sleeve being a separate connecting member directly connected to the rigid member by plastic deformation
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/008—Couplings of the quick-acting type for branching pipes; for joining pipes to walls
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
- F16L37/088—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of a split elastic ring
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
- F16L37/098—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks
- F16L37/0985—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L2201/00—Special arrangements for pipe couplings
- F16L2201/80—Dust covers
Definitions
- This invention relates to a quick connect coupling that provides a strong, fluid tight seal.
- quick connect couplings are known to secure high pressure fluid lines of the sort typically found in power steering, air conditioning, brake or other systems within a housing.
- the quick connect coupling In such high pressure systems, the quick connect coupling must quickly and securely connect tubing within the housing, and must also provide a strong fluid tight seal.
- Prior art quick connect couplings have some deficiencies in achieving the goals of being quickly connected, providing a strong connection between the tube and the housing, and also providing a fluid tight seal.
- One type of coupling disclosed in the prior art includes a bushing secured within the housing and abutting the tube upset portion, retaining the tube in the housing.
- US-A-4750765 discloses a fluid connector in which a sleeve is located on a tube between a pair of radially greater portions of the tube.
- a resilient locking member engages in a groove in the sleeve, the locking member expanding to engage a larger diameter section of the housing to retain the tube in the housing.
- Sealing means to provide a seal between the housing and tube are located in grooves in the housing requiring them to be pre-assembled into the housing before the tube is inserted.
- the present invention discloses a unique quick connect tubing connector which provides a strong connection between a tube and a housing, and also provides a fluid tight seal.
- a fluid connector comprises: a housing defining a bore, said bore extending axially inwardly into said housing, said bore having an entrance portion of a relatively small first radial dimension at an outer end of said bore, and a greater radial portion of a second dimension positioned axially inwardly from said entrance portion;
- a notch at an axial end of the sleeve positioned into the bore abuts a first radially greater, or upset portion, of the tube, retaining the tube within the bore.
- an outer portion of the notch abuts a seal radially outwardly of the upset portion to provide a fluid tight connection between the housing and tube.
- the locking member has plural circumferentially-spaced resilient arms which have a radially outer relaxed dimension greater than the inner radial dimension of an entrance portion to the bore.
- the locking member When fully connected, the locking member is received within a portion of the bore which has a greater radial dimension than the relaxed dimension.
- the arms are biased inwardly while entering the bore and moving through the entrance portion. When the arms move axially into the greater radial dimension portion of the bore, they spring outwardly back to their relaxed dimension. In this position the arms retain the locking member, and consequently the sleeve and tube, within the bore.
- the resilient arms have circumferentially-spaced braces at each circumferential end.
- the braces extend slightly radially inwardly and circumferentially from the arms.
- the arms each have a tang extending radially inwardly from an outer end.
- the tangs preferably have holes to facilitate removal of the locking member.
- An inner end of each arm is connected to a ring-shaped member. The ring-shaped member abuts the sleeve, and secures it in the bore.
- the tube has a second upset portion formed axially outwardly of the locking member and sleeve.
- the locking member and sleeve are thus trapped and received between the first and second upset portions of the tube.
- a seal is received between the first upset portion and an inner end of the tube. The sleeve abuts this seal.
- the assembled tube, sleeve, locking member, and seal may then all be inserted into the bore as a unit.
- Figure 1A shows fluid connector 20 for connecting a tube 22 within a bore 25 in housing 24.
- Tube 22 is preferably connected to a source of high pressure fluid, such as a hydraulic brake, air conditioning, or power steering line.
- a retainer or locking member 26 has a pair of resilient arms 27, which include tangs 28 extending radially inwardly from an outer end of arms 27 adjacent an outer end of bore 25. Arms 27 are shown in a relaxed position where tangs 28 abut a face 23 of bore 25, preventing removal of locking member 26 from bore 25. Tangs 28 have holes 29 into which a tool may be inserted to bias arms 27 radially inwardly for insertion or removal of locking member 26.
- Tube 22 has an axially outer radially enlarged, or upset, portion 30 adjacent an axially outer end of bore 25.
- a bore 31 is formed in a ring-shaped member 32, and is received on tube 22 such that upset portion 30 abuts an axially outer face of ring-shaped member 32.
- a steel spacer, bushing or sleeve 33 is positioned on an inner face of ring-shaped member 32. Sleeve 33 and locking member 26 are trapped on tube 22 between upset portion 30 and an axially inner upset portion 34.
- Sleeve 33 has a notch 35 formed adjacent inner upset portion 34, and consisting of a radially inner portion 36 which abuts upset portion 34 and a radially outer portion 38 which is axially aligned with, and radially outwardly of, inner upset portion 34.
- An O-ring seal 40 is positioned axially between portion 38 of sleeve 33 and an inner face 41 of bore 25. Both sleeve portion 38 and tube inner upset portion 34 abut seal 40 and force seal 40 into sealing engagement with face 41, providing a fluid tight seal. An expanded end 42 of tube 22 secures seal 40 on tube 22.
- Tube 22 is preferably inserted into bore 25 with locking member 26, sleeve 33, and O-ring 40 all received as an assembled unit.
- the assembled unit passes easily into bore 25 until resilient arms 27 of locking member 26 encounter conical entrance portion 44. Arms 27 are then biased radially inwardly, either with the assistance of a tool in holes 29, or by the conically inwardly extending face of conical entrance portion 44. Locking member 26 thus moves axially past entrance portion 44.
- locking arms 27 spring radially outwardly to their relaxed position, such that tangs 28 abut face 23 of bore 25. In this way locking member 26 is secured within bore 25.
- Ring-shaped member 32 abuts an outer end of sleeve 33. Portion 36 is forced against upset end 34, securing tube 22 within bore 25.
- a cylindrical lip 19 may extend axially inwardly from ring-shaped member 32, and be received in notch 35.
- Locking member 26 has arms 27 extending axially and radially outwardly from ring-shaped member 32. Tangs 28 extend radially inwardly from an outer end of arms 27 and have holes 29. Ring-shaped member 32 has bore 31.
- Braces 45 extend circumferentially and slightly radially inwardly from circumferential ends of each arm 27. Braces 45 add strength to arms 27 and resist buckling should a force be applied to attempt to remove tube 22 from bore 25.
- Figure 3 is an end view of coupling 20 as illustrated in Figure 1.
- Tube 22 is received within a centre of bore 25.
- Upset end 30 abuts an outer face of ring-shaped member 32.
- Tangs 28 extend radially inwardly and abut wall 43.
- Braces 45 extend circumferentially and radially inwardly from tangs 28.
- Figure 4 shows a second embodiment connector 48.
- Tube 50 is secured within a bore 47 in a housing 49 by a lock ring 52 received within a notch 53.
- Lock ring 52 is also received within a notch 55 on sleeve 54.
- Conical entrance portion 56 extends to the outer end of bore 47.
- the assembled tube unit is inserted, and ring 52 snaps into notch 53 locking sleeve 54 within housing 49.
- Sleeve 54 has a notch 61 positioned adjacent upset portion 58. In this regard it secures tube 50 within housing 49 similar to the first embodiment.
- O-ring 60 is secured by a ditch 62 formed at an axial position between upset portion 58 and an end 63 of tube 50.
- Figure 5 shows details of lock ring 52 for use with second embodiment 48.
- Lock ring 52 includes a pair of spaced ends 57. Holes 59 are formed adjacent ends 57, and may receive a tool such that ends 57 can be biased towards each other to facilitate insertion or removal of lock ring 52 through the conical entrance portion 56.
- Figure 6 shows a third embodiment connector 64.
- Third embodiment 64 is similar to second embodiment 48 except that a spacer seal 66 is positioned axially adjacent upset portion 58.
- the end of sleeve 54 which forms notch 61 abuts spacer 66 to provide a fluid tight seal.
- O-ring 60 is received within ditch 62.
- a second upset portion 68 is formed at an outer axial end of tube 50 to secure sleeve 54 and lock ring 52 on tube 50.
- Figure 7 shows a further connector embodiment 70 having a housing 72 receiving a tube 74.
- a flexible hose 76 is connected to tube 74.
- a locking member 78 similar to those described above, is positioned inside housing 72, and acts in conjunction with sleeve 80 to secure tube 74 within housing 72.
- An O-ring 82 is positioned axially beyond an inner upset portion 84 to seal the fluid connection between tube 74 and housing 72.
- An outer upset portion 86 retains locking member 78 within housing 72.
- Tube 74 has a flared inner end 89 to secure seal 82 on the assembled tube 74.
- the tube 74, locking member 78, sleeve 80 and O-ring 82 may all be assembled into housing 72 as a one-piece unit.
- An axially outer portion of tube 74 has three spaced hose upset portions 90, 91 and 92.
- a ferrule 94 which is originally cylindrical as shown in phantom at 95, is crimped radially inwardly to squeeze flexible hose 76 into area 96 between upset portions 91 and 92. When ferrule 94 is crimped, an outer end 98 may flare slightly outwardly.
- An axially inner end 100 of ferrule 94 extends radially towards tube 74 between upset portions 90 and 91.
- the tube is initially of a generally uniform outer diameter.
- An upset portion 30 or 68 is formed at a position spaced from a first end of the tube. In the second embodiment, shown in Figure 4, this step is eliminated.
- the sleeve and locking member, or lock ring, are then moved onto the tube from the one end towards the upset portion.
- the inner upset portion 34 or 58 is then formed to secure the sleeve and locking member on the tube.
- a seal securing member 42 or 62 is then formed between the inner upset portion and an inner end of the tube. The seal is then placed on the seal securing member.
- the assembled unit is then inserted into the bore in the housing.
- the inner portions of the tube are formed in a similar fashion to those discussed above.
- the outer portions, shown to the right of upset portion 90 in Figure 7, are formed subsequently to complete the tube unit.
- the portions outside of the housing may be formed first and then the inner portions formed subsequently.
- upset portion 90 is preferably initially formed on tube 74.
- Ferrule 94 is then placed on the tube from the outer end.
- Upset portions 91 and 92 are then preferably formed.
- Hose 76 is then forced onto upset portions 91 and 92, and ferrule 94 is crimped inwardly from position 95. Hose 76 is thus securely fastened to tube 74.
- the ditch 42 is a rolled groove.
- the upset portions are formed by a standard upset machine.
- the flared end is also formed by standard machining methods.
- locking member 26 is formed of a stainless steel. Further, the sleeve is preferably formed from 12L14 steel. The O-ring is preferably of the type commonly known as E.P.D.M.
Description
- This invention relates to a quick connect coupling that provides a strong, fluid tight seal.
- Various quick connect couplings are known to secure high pressure fluid lines of the sort typically found in power steering, air conditioning, brake or other systems within a housing. In such high pressure systems, the quick connect coupling must quickly and securely connect tubing within the housing, and must also provide a strong fluid tight seal. Prior art quick connect couplings have some deficiencies in achieving the goals of being quickly connected, providing a strong connection between the tube and the housing, and also providing a fluid tight seal.
- One type of coupling disclosed in the prior art includes a bushing secured within the housing and abutting the tube upset portion, retaining the tube in the housing. These prior art structures have provided relatively quick connections, however, they have generally been complex and have not always provided fluid tight seals.
- In addition, the means to secure the bushings in these prior art structures have been somewhat deficient. They have not always provided both quick and strong connections between the bushing and the housing.
- US-A-4750765 discloses a fluid connector in which a sleeve is located on a tube between a pair of radially greater portions of the tube. A resilient locking member engages in a groove in the sleeve, the locking member expanding to engage a larger diameter section of the housing to retain the tube in the housing. Sealing means to provide a seal between the housing and tube are located in grooves in the housing requiring them to be pre-assembled into the housing before the tube is inserted.
- Finally, prior art quick connect couplings are known in which the tube, a member for securing the tube within a housing, and seals are all inserted into a housing as a one-piece unit. The prior art methods of assembling these one-piece units have been somewhat deficient in the prior art, and overly complex.
- The present invention discloses a unique quick connect tubing connector which provides a strong connection between a tube and a housing, and also provides a fluid tight seal.
- According to the present invention a fluid connector comprises: a housing defining a bore, said bore extending axially inwardly into said housing, said bore having an entrance portion of a relatively small first radial dimension at an outer end of said bore, and a greater radial portion of a second dimension positioned axially inwardly from said entrance portion;
- a tube received within said bore;
- a sleeve mounted coaxially on said tube an inner axial extent of the sleeve abutting a radially greater portion of said tube;
- a radially resilient locking member having a relaxed outer radial dimension in excess of said first radial dimension and being biased inwardly as said locking member is moved into said bore and through said entrance portion, the locking member springing radially outwardly when said locking member reaches said greater radial portion of the bore,
- said locking member engaging an outer axial extent of the sleeve to retain said sleeve and thus the tube within said bore when the locking member engages in the greater radial portion of the bore;
- and sealing means to provide a seal between the housing and tube;
- In one disclosed embodiment, a notch at an axial end of the sleeve positioned into the bore abuts a first radially greater, or upset portion, of the tube, retaining the tube within the bore. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an outer portion of the notch abuts a seal radially outwardly of the upset portion to provide a fluid tight connection between the housing and tube.
- In another aspect of the present invention, the locking member has plural circumferentially-spaced resilient arms which have a radially outer relaxed dimension greater than the inner radial dimension of an entrance portion to the bore. When fully connected, the locking member is received within a portion of the bore which has a greater radial dimension than the relaxed dimension. The arms are biased inwardly while entering the bore and moving through the entrance portion. When the arms move axially into the greater radial dimension portion of the bore, they spring outwardly back to their relaxed dimension. In this position the arms retain the locking member, and consequently the sleeve and tube, within the bore.
- Most preferably, the resilient arms have circumferentially-spaced braces at each circumferential end. The braces extend slightly radially inwardly and circumferentially from the arms. Preferably, the arms each have a tang extending radially inwardly from an outer end. The tangs preferably have holes to facilitate removal of the locking member. An inner end of each arm is connected to a ring-shaped member. The ring-shaped member abuts the sleeve, and secures it in the bore.
- In another preferred feature, the tube has a second upset portion formed axially outwardly of the locking member and sleeve. The locking member and sleeve are thus trapped and received between the first and second upset portions of the tube. A seal is received between the first upset portion and an inner end of the tube. The sleeve abuts this seal. The assembled tube, sleeve, locking member, and seal may then all be inserted into the bore as a unit.
- These and other features of the present invention can be best understood from the following specification and drawings, of which the following is a brief description.
- Figure 1A is a cross-sectional view through a first embodiment of the present invention;
- Figure 1B is a view similar to Figure 1A, but showing a slight modification;
- Figure 2 is a partial exploded view of portions of the connector of the present invention;
- Figure 3 is an end view of the device illustrated in Figure 1;
- Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 1, but through a second embodiment of the present invention;
- Figure 5 is an end view of the connector illustrated in Figure 4.
- Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 3, but showing a third embodiment of the present invention; and
- Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a further feature of the present invention.
- Figure 1A shows
fluid connector 20 for connecting atube 22 within abore 25 inhousing 24. Tube 22 is preferably connected to a source of high pressure fluid, such as a hydraulic brake, air conditioning, or power steering line. A retainer orlocking member 26 has a pair ofresilient arms 27, which includetangs 28 extending radially inwardly from an outer end ofarms 27 adjacent an outer end ofbore 25.Arms 27 are shown in a relaxed position where tangs 28 abut aface 23 ofbore 25, preventing removal oflocking member 26 frombore 25.Tangs 28 haveholes 29 into which a tool may be inserted to biasarms 27 radially inwardly for insertion or removal oflocking member 26. - Tube 22 has an axially outer radially enlarged, or upset,
portion 30 adjacent an axially outer end ofbore 25. Abore 31 is formed in a ring-shaped member 32, and is received ontube 22 such thatupset portion 30 abuts an axially outer face of ring-shaped member 32. A steel spacer, bushing orsleeve 33 is positioned on an inner face of ring-shaped member 32. Sleeve 33 andlocking member 26 are trapped ontube 22 betweenupset portion 30 and an axially innerupset portion 34.Sleeve 33 has anotch 35 formed adjacent innerupset portion 34, and consisting of a radiallyinner portion 36 which abutsupset portion 34 and a radiallyouter portion 38 which is axially aligned with, and radially outwardly of, innerupset portion 34. - An O-
ring seal 40 is positioned axially betweenportion 38 ofsleeve 33 and aninner face 41 ofbore 25. Bothsleeve portion 38 and tube innerupset portion 34abut seal 40 andforce seal 40 into sealing engagement withface 41, providing a fluid tight seal. An expandedend 42 oftube 22 securesseal 40 ontube 22. - Tube 22 is preferably inserted into
bore 25 withlocking member 26,sleeve 33, and O-ring 40 all received as an assembled unit. The assembled unit passes easily intobore 25 untilresilient arms 27 oflocking member 26 encounterconical entrance portion 44.Arms 27 are then biased radially inwardly, either with the assistance of a tool inholes 29, or by the conically inwardly extending face ofconical entrance portion 44. Lockingmember 26 thus moves axiallypast entrance portion 44. - Once
past entrance portion 44, lockingarms 27 spring radially outwardly to their relaxed position, such thattangs 28abut face 23 ofbore 25. In thisway locking member 26 is secured withinbore 25. Ring-shapedmember 32 abuts an outer end ofsleeve 33.Portion 36 is forced againstupset end 34, securingtube 22 withinbore 25. - As shown in Figure 1B, a
cylindrical lip 19 may extend axially inwardly from ring-shapedmember 32, and be received innotch 35. - Details of locking
member 26,sleeve 33 and O-ring 40 can be best understood from Figure 2.Bore 25 is formed withinhousing 24 and hasconical entrance portion 44 andface 23. O-ring 40 is spaced axially inwardly fromsleeve 33.Sleeve 33 preferably hasnotch 35 at each axial end, such thatsleeve 33 may be used in either axial direction. Lockingmember 26 hasarms 27 extending axially and radially outwardly from ring-shapedmember 32.Tangs 28 extend radially inwardly from an outer end ofarms 27 and haveholes 29. Ring-shapedmember 32 hasbore 31. -
Braces 45 extend circumferentially and slightly radially inwardly from circumferential ends of eacharm 27.Braces 45 add strength toarms 27 and resist buckling should a force be applied to attempt to removetube 22 frombore 25. - Figure 3 is an end view of
coupling 20 as illustrated in Figure 1.Tube 22 is received within a centre ofbore 25.Upset end 30 abuts an outer face of ring-shapedmember 32.Tangs 28 extend radially inwardly and abut wall 43.Braces 45 extend circumferentially and radially inwardly from tangs 28. - Figure 4 shows a
second embodiment connector 48.Tube 50 is secured within abore 47 in ahousing 49 by alock ring 52 received within anotch 53.Lock ring 52 is also received within anotch 55 onsleeve 54.Conical entrance portion 56 extends to the outer end ofbore 47. - The assembled tube unit is inserted, and ring 52 snaps into
notch 53 lockingsleeve 54 withinhousing 49.Sleeve 54 has anotch 61 positioned adjacentupset portion 58. In this regard it securestube 50 withinhousing 49 similar to the first embodiment. O-ring 60 is secured by aditch 62 formed at an axial position betweenupset portion 58 and anend 63 oftube 50. - Figure 5 shows details of
lock ring 52 for use withsecond embodiment 48.Lock ring 52 includes a pair of spaced ends 57.Holes 59 are formed adjacent ends 57, and may receive a tool such that ends 57 can be biased towards each other to facilitate insertion or removal oflock ring 52 through theconical entrance portion 56. The combination of biasing ends 57 circumferentially together, and the conically inwardly tapered surface ofconical entrance portion 56, assist in the insertion oflock ring 52 intonotch 53. - Figure 6 shows a third embodiment connector 64. Third embodiment 64 is similar to
second embodiment 48 except that aspacer seal 66 is positioned axially adjacentupset portion 58. The end ofsleeve 54 which formsnotch 61 abutsspacer 66 to provide a fluid tight seal. O-ring 60 is received withinditch 62. A secondupset portion 68 is formed at an outer axial end oftube 50 to securesleeve 54 andlock ring 52 ontube 50. - Figure 7 shows a
further connector embodiment 70 having ahousing 72 receiving atube 74. Aflexible hose 76 is connected totube 74. A lockingmember 78, similar to those described above, is positioned insidehousing 72, and acts in conjunction withsleeve 80 to securetube 74 withinhousing 72. An O-ring 82 is positioned axially beyond an innerupset portion 84 to seal the fluid connection betweentube 74 andhousing 72. An outerupset portion 86 retains lockingmember 78 withinhousing 72.Tube 74 has a flaredinner end 89 to secure seal 82 on the assembledtube 74. Thus, thetube 74, lockingmember 78,sleeve 80 and O-ring 82 may all be assembled intohousing 72 as a one-piece unit. - An axially outer portion of
tube 74 has three spaced hoseupset portions flexible hose 76 intoarea 96 betweenupset portions outer end 98 may flare slightly outwardly. An axiallyinner end 100 of ferrule 94 extends radially towardstube 74 betweenupset portions - A method of forming the various fluid connections will now be disclosed with reference to the drawings . The tube is initially of a generally uniform outer diameter. An
upset portion upset portion seal securing member - In forming
embodiment 70, as shown in Figure 7, the inner portions of the tube are formed in a similar fashion to those discussed above. Preferably, either the entire inside portion of the tube is formed and then the outer portions, shown to the right ofupset portion 90 in Figure 7, are formed subsequently to complete the tube unit. Alternatively, the portions outside of the housing may be formed first and then the inner portions formed subsequently. - In forming the outer portions,
upset portion 90 is preferably initially formed ontube 74. Ferrule 94 is then placed on the tube from the outer end.Upset portions Hose 76 is then forced ontoupset portions position 95.Hose 76 is thus securely fastened totube 74. - In a preferred embodiment, the
ditch 42 is a rolled groove. The upset portions are formed by a standard upset machine. The flared end is also formed by standard machining methods. - Most preferably locking
member 26 is formed of a stainless steel. Further, the sleeve is preferably formed from 12L14 steel. The O-ring is preferably of the type commonly known as E.P.D.M. - Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed, however, a worker of ordinary skill in the art would recognise that certain modifications would come within the scope of this invention. Thus, the following claims should be studied in order to determine the true scope and content of this invention.
Claims (13)
- A fluid connector (20; 48; 64; 70) comprising:a housing (24; 49; 72) defining a bore (25; 47), said bore (25; 47) extending axially inwardly into said housing (24; 49; 72), said bore (25; 47) having an entrance portion (44; 56) of a relatively small first radial dimension at an outer end of said bore (25; 47), and a greater radial portion of a second dimension positioned axially inwardly from said entrance portion (44; 56) ;a tube (22; 50; 74) received within said bore (25; 47) ;a sleeve (33; 54; 80) mounted coaxially on said tube (20; 50; 74) an inner axial extent of the sleeve (33; 54; 80) abutting a radially greater portion (34; 58; 84) of said tube (20; 50; 74);a radially resilient locking member (26; 52; 78), having a relaxed outer radial dimension in excess of said first radial dimension and being biased inwardly as said locking member (26; 52; 78) is moved into said bore (25; 47) and through said entrance portion (44; 56), the locking member (26; 52; 78) springing radially outwardly when said locking member (26; 52; 78) reaches said greater radial portion of the bore (25; 47) ;said locking member (26; 52; 78) engaging an outer axial extent of the sleeve (33; 54; 80), to retain said sleeve (33; 54; 80) and thus the tube (22; 50; 78) within said bore (25; 47) when the locking member (26; 52; 78) engages the greater radial portion of the bore (25; 47) ;and sealing means (40; 60, 66; 82) to provide a seal between the housing (24; 49; 72) and tube (22; 50; 74);characterised in that the sealing means (40; 60, 66; 82) is located on the inner end of the tube (22; 50; 74) and abuts an inner axial extent of the sleeve (33; 54; 80), the sealing means (40; 60, 66; 82) being urged into sealing engagement with an inner face (41) of the bore (25; 47) when the locking member (26; 52; 78) engages in the greater radial portion of the bore (25; 47).
- A fluid connector (20; 70) according to claim 1, characterised in that said locking member (26; 78) comprises a plurality of radially resilient arms (27) extending away from a ring shaped member (32) said arms having a relaxed outer radial dimension intermediate of said first and second radial dimensions, the ring shaped member (32) abutting an outer axial extent of the sleeve (33).
- A fluid connector (20; 70) according to claim 2, characterised in that said arms (27) extend over limited circumferential extents of said locking member (26), and braces (45) extend circumferentially and slightly radially inwardly from each circumferential side of said arms (27) to add strength.
- A fluid connector (20; 64; 70) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that a second radially greater portion (30; 68) is formed on said tube (22; 50; 74) axially outwardly of said outer axial extent of said sleeve (33; 54; 80), said second radially greater portion (30; 68) retaining said sleeve (33; 54; 80) and said locking member (26; 52; 78) on said tube (22; 50; 74).
- A fluid connector (20; 70) according to claim 4, characterised in that said second radially greater portion (30) abuts said ring-shaped member (32) of said locking member (26; 78).
- A fluid connector (20; 70) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterised in that tangs (28) extend radially inwardly from an outer axial end of said arms (27), said tangs (28) abutting an inner face (23) of said housing (24) to retain said locking member (26; 78) within said housing (24).
- A fluid connector (20; 70) according to claim 6, characterised in that said tangs (28) have holes (29) extending axially therethrough.
- A fluid connector (20; 48; 70) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the sealing means (40; 60, 66; 82) is received axially inwardly of said radially greater portion (34) of said tube (22).
- A fluid connector (20; 48; 70) according to claim 8, characterised in that said sealing means (40; 60, 66; 82) abuts said radially greater portion (34).
- A fluid connector (20; 48; 64; 70) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said sealing means is an 'O' ring (40; 60; 82).
- A fluid connector (64) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that said seal consists of a first resilient washer (66) positioned axially inwardly of said inner axial extent of said sleeve (33), and an 'O' ring (60) positioned on an inner axial side of said washer (66).
- A fluid connector (48; 64; 70) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a radially inwardly extending ditch (62) is formed axially inwardly of said radially greater portion (58; 84), said 'O' ring (60; 82) being received in said ditch (62).
- A fluid connector (20; 70) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterised in that an inner axial end (42; 89) of said tube (22; 74) is flared radially outwardly to retain said seal (40; 82) on said tube (22; 74).
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US07/757,393 US5350203A (en) | 1991-09-10 | 1991-09-10 | Quick connect tubing connector and method of assembly |
US757393 | 1991-09-10 | ||
US840376 | 1992-02-24 | ||
US07/840,376 US5275448A (en) | 1991-09-10 | 1992-02-24 | Quick connect tubing connector and method of assembly |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0532242A2 EP0532242A2 (en) | 1993-03-17 |
EP0532242A3 EP0532242A3 (en) | 1994-05-18 |
EP0532242B1 true EP0532242B1 (en) | 1997-03-26 |
Family
ID=27116375
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP92308046A Expired - Lifetime EP0532242B1 (en) | 1991-09-10 | 1992-09-04 | Quick connect tubing connector |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US5275448A (en) |
EP (1) | EP0532242B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP3395083B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2077867C (en) |
DE (1) | DE69218528T2 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2101039T3 (en) |
MX (1) | MX9205158A (en) |
Families Citing this family (33)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5538297A (en) * | 1991-09-10 | 1996-07-23 | Bundy Corporation | Quick connect tubing connector |
DE4219235C1 (en) * | 1992-06-12 | 1993-09-23 | Mercedes-Benz Aktiengesellschaft, 70327 Stuttgart, De | Plug-in-type detachable pipe union - has supporting ring in socket with sealing lip round pipe end at side towards sealing ring |
US5775738A (en) * | 1992-09-21 | 1998-07-07 | Propiretary Technology, Inc. | Means of coupling of non-threaded connections |
US5655796A (en) * | 1992-09-21 | 1997-08-12 | Proprietary Technology, Inc. | Tubular assembly and method of making same |
US5540463A (en) * | 1992-09-25 | 1996-07-30 | Parker Hannifin Corporation | Couplings for automobile air conditioning system conduits |
US5374089A (en) * | 1992-09-29 | 1994-12-20 | Itt Industries Inc. | High pressure quick connector |
DE4333273C1 (en) * | 1993-09-30 | 1994-11-10 | Rasmussen Gmbh | Push-in coupling for connecting two fluid lines |
US5429395A (en) * | 1994-05-20 | 1995-07-04 | Bundy Corporation | Retainer arrangement for extreme load applications |
DE4427597A1 (en) * | 1994-08-04 | 1996-02-08 | Teves Gmbh Alfred | Tube connection for brake line on vehicle |
US5486025A (en) * | 1994-09-29 | 1996-01-23 | Bundy Corporation | Stuffer pin assembly for quick connector |
US5622394A (en) * | 1995-03-15 | 1997-04-22 | Bundy Corporation | Corrosion-resistant joint |
US5927761A (en) * | 1995-03-20 | 1999-07-27 | Proprietary Technology, Inc. | Means of coupling of non-threaded connections |
US5711549A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1998-01-27 | Itt Automotive, Inc. | High pressure quick connect for use in automotive brake system application |
GB2312262A (en) * | 1996-04-16 | 1997-10-22 | Emaco Ltd | Fastener for connecting fluid carrying bodies |
US5711553A (en) * | 1996-09-04 | 1998-01-27 | Stmc-Llc | Quick connect fluid coupling |
US5882049A (en) * | 1996-12-18 | 1999-03-16 | Itt Automotive, Inc. | High pressure quick connect with reduced volumetric displacement and piloted snap ring |
DE19755826C1 (en) | 1997-12-16 | 1999-05-20 | Raymond A & Cie | Releasable connector for pressure hoses |
US5984376A (en) * | 1998-02-19 | 1999-11-16 | Automotive Fluid Systems, Inc. | Closed coupling male spring lock fitting |
DE19822753A1 (en) * | 1998-05-20 | 1999-12-02 | Veritas Gummiwerke Ag | Pipeline |
US6086113A (en) * | 1998-06-23 | 2000-07-11 | Proprietary Technology, Inc. | Means of coupling of non-threaded connections |
US6412826B1 (en) | 1999-04-16 | 2002-07-02 | Itt Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc. | High pressure quick connector |
EP1221217A1 (en) * | 1999-10-11 | 2002-07-10 | Nokia Corporation | A method for identifying bad frames |
US6543814B2 (en) | 2000-08-10 | 2003-04-08 | John M. Bartholomew | Quick connector |
US6447024B1 (en) | 2001-06-08 | 2002-09-10 | Dana Corporation | Spring retainer clip for a quick-connect coupling |
DE10248014A1 (en) * | 2002-10-15 | 2004-05-13 | Trw Fahrwerksysteme Gmbh & Co Kg | Pipe connection for joining pipe to container or storage tank has bead on pipe to act as resting surface for holding disk |
AT502650B1 (en) * | 2006-02-13 | 2007-05-15 | Vaillant Austria Gmbh | Retaining body for use with e.g. industrial water line, has flange that rests on side at body, where side is turned away from pipeline, region covered by flange includes passage and sealant is arranged within passage |
US20100066075A1 (en) * | 2007-05-25 | 2010-03-18 | Crompton David B | Removal tool and method for push-fit fluid flow systems |
EP2058509B1 (en) * | 2007-11-12 | 2012-07-18 | Continental Automotive GmbH | Coupling device |
DE102008059897B4 (en) | 2008-12-02 | 2010-09-16 | Dionex Softron Gmbh | Plug unit and connection system for connecting capillaries, in particular for high performance liquid chromatography |
JP5518529B2 (en) * | 2010-03-04 | 2014-06-11 | 株式会社ニフコ | connector |
US9464740B2 (en) * | 2013-09-18 | 2016-10-11 | Paccar Inc | Snap-in oriented fitting |
DE102014107655A1 (en) * | 2014-05-30 | 2015-12-03 | Voss Automotive Gmbh | "Connector for fluid lines with internal adapter sleeve" |
US9719620B2 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2017-08-01 | Cnh Industrial America Llc | Quick coupling for flexible tube |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1785638A (en) * | 1928-06-29 | 1930-12-16 | Ludwig Fred | Hose coupling |
US1903445A (en) * | 1930-10-11 | 1933-04-11 | Ernst Clemens Joseph | Hose and pipe coupling |
US2288684A (en) * | 1940-11-01 | 1942-07-07 | Flex O Tube Company | Detachable coupling |
US2374225A (en) * | 1941-10-04 | 1945-04-24 | Bowden Eng Ltd | Flexible hose coupling |
US2386562A (en) * | 1944-05-22 | 1945-10-09 | Frank D Mahoney | Hose coupling |
FR970958A (en) * | 1947-09-02 | 1951-01-11 | Dunlop Sa | Connection for flexible hoses |
US2570477A (en) * | 1948-03-31 | 1951-10-09 | Weatherhead Co | Hose coupling |
US2686066A (en) * | 1951-08-03 | 1954-08-10 | Joseph N Paquin | Hose coupling with locking ribs |
US3394950A (en) * | 1967-08-09 | 1968-07-30 | Warren R. Jensen | Hose coupling attachment |
US3549180A (en) * | 1968-05-16 | 1970-12-22 | Scovill Manufacturing Co | Hose and hose coupling assembly |
US3826523A (en) * | 1972-11-22 | 1974-07-30 | Parker Hannifin Corp | Quick connect tube coupling joint |
US3847421A (en) * | 1972-11-24 | 1974-11-12 | Parker Hannifin Corp | Quick connect tube coupling joint |
US3873062A (en) * | 1973-11-30 | 1975-03-25 | Jerry Lynn Johnson | Air hose quick coupler |
FR2263449A1 (en) * | 1974-03-06 | 1975-10-03 | Staubli Sa Ets | Joining mechanism for tubing - has expanding split ring holding toroidal seal against conical seat |
FR2324974A1 (en) * | 1975-09-16 | 1977-04-15 | Pont A Mousson | Mixer swivel tap pipe mounting - has O-ring seal in lower groove and upper ring abutting bevelled edge of split collar |
US4018460A (en) * | 1975-10-28 | 1977-04-19 | American Stamping Company | Hose coupling |
FR2392310A1 (en) * | 1977-05-26 | 1978-12-22 | Ermeto | Flexible hose spray nozzle - has tube with collar for positioning socket and barb formation for securing hose |
US4681351A (en) * | 1982-03-22 | 1987-07-21 | Proprietary Technology, Inc. | Swivelable quick connector assembly |
US4778203A (en) * | 1982-03-22 | 1988-10-18 | Proprietary Technology, Inc. | Swivelable quick connector for high temperature connection |
US4664424A (en) * | 1982-11-12 | 1987-05-12 | Internationale Octrooi Maatschappij | Hose coupling |
US4522435A (en) * | 1982-12-27 | 1985-06-11 | Parker Hannifin Corporation | Hose coupling joint |
US4733890A (en) * | 1984-07-09 | 1988-03-29 | Stratoflex, Inc. | Formed fluid coupling apparatus |
US4804212A (en) * | 1986-11-06 | 1989-02-14 | Stratoflex, Inc. | Crimped hose fitting |
US4817997A (en) * | 1987-06-25 | 1989-04-04 | Ingram Thomas L | Hose coupling |
US4750765A (en) * | 1987-07-27 | 1988-06-14 | Stratoflex, Inc. | Quick-connect coupling |
FR2631681B1 (en) * | 1988-05-20 | 1990-08-24 | Peugeot | QUICK CONNECTION FOR PIPE |
US4991876A (en) * | 1989-07-28 | 1991-02-12 | Euroflex, S.A. | Connector assembly for hot water heaters and other appliances |
-
1992
- 1992-02-24 US US07/840,376 patent/US5275448A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-09-04 EP EP92308046A patent/EP0532242B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-09-04 ES ES92308046T patent/ES2101039T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-09-04 DE DE69218528T patent/DE69218528T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-09-09 CA CA002077867A patent/CA2077867C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1992-09-09 MX MX9205158A patent/MX9205158A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1992-09-10 JP JP24192692A patent/JP3395083B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US5275448A (en) | 1994-01-04 |
DE69218528T2 (en) | 1997-07-03 |
CA2077867A1 (en) | 1993-03-11 |
JPH06123390A (en) | 1994-05-06 |
EP0532242A2 (en) | 1993-03-17 |
MX9205158A (en) | 1993-03-01 |
EP0532242A3 (en) | 1994-05-18 |
JP3395083B2 (en) | 2003-04-07 |
ES2101039T3 (en) | 1997-07-01 |
CA2077867C (en) | 1999-07-20 |
DE69218528D1 (en) | 1997-04-30 |
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